Episode 9: Best laid plans
Part 1:
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Walking into the bedroom Alexis watched as the servants brought the luggage in setting Blake's down in front of the bed and taking her's on to her dressing room.
"Thank you Gerard." Alexis said with a reserved smile for the butler as he wished them both a goodnight.
Sighing as soon as they were alone Alexis fumbled with her hatpin; she sat her hat down on the side, running her fingers through her newly released hair fluffing it out. Crossing the room she slid her hands onto Blake's shoulders, massaging the knots out of them.
"Are you alright? You were very quiet on the trip back here."
Reaching up Blake stroked her hands, lifting one up and pressing a kiss to the palm.
"I'm alright…I just can't quite believe it." Blake murmured and Alexis squeezed his hand back, leaning down she pressed a kiss to his cheek.
"It was a lovely ceremony." She commented running her hands through his hair. "I was afraid it might rain." She added trying to fill the awkward silence, disappointed when Blake pulled away from her touch.
"Alexis." Blake began his voice husky with emotion, as he shifted uncomfortably uncertain how he could phrase it without upsetting her. "I…"
"Want to be alone for a while." Alexis finished for him and Blake looked up at her in surprise.
"You don't mind?"
Leaning down Alexis kissed his other cheek. "Let's just say I understand that you need it…"
"Thank you."
"I'll just go check on the children. You come down when you are ready?"
Leaning back in his chair Blake managed a smile. "Have I told you I love you today?"
"Oh." Alexis pondered a beguiling smile tugging at her lips. "Once or twice but it's always nice to hear it."
"Well I do." Blake replied earnestly, "I just hope I say it enough, that if…" He broke off unable to continue; but the way he suddenly avoided her gaze, and rose to attend to his unpacking, filled in the rest.
Walking up behind him Alexis wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head against his shoulder she whispered in his ear. "Blake…I am not going anywhere, nothing is going to happen to me or to you…You'll never get me to leave you, not without a crowbar!"
Turning in her arms Blake pulled her firmly into his embrace, one hand winding its way into her hair, stroking the longer curls that now fell just over her shoulders. "Am I that transparent?"
"Only to me but then I love you so there is nothing to worry about." Alexis retorted smartly, eliciting a small smile.
"I'll see you later." She added trying to step out of his arms surprised when Blake tightened his grip on her.
Leaning forward he caught her lips with his own, surprising them both with his sudden passion. Moaning into his mouth Alexis allowed Blake to push her back onto the bed, his hands moving quickly and roughly over her as he practically ripped her blouse in two.
Gasping for breath Alexis arched under his mouth as it moved possessively over her flesh. "I…thought…you…wanted to be…ahhlone?"
"Changed my mind." Blake growled kissing her firmly, as his hands made quick work of the rest of both of their clothing, adding "The last thing I want now is to be alone."
"You change your mind!" Alexis gasped. "You must be an impostor; the Blake Carrington I know never changes his mind."
"Just call me your secret admirer!" Blake muttered kissing her again, a few gentle kisses and she could sense he was trying to force himself to take his time.
"You don't have to go slow." She grasped him, and he groaned as if in pain. "Not the first time, anyway…Just don't tell my fiancé." Grinning at him, she pulled him to her, wrapping her legs around him and giving him little choice but to do what he wanted so badly to do.
He gave way to the inevitable, his eyes closing as they joined. "Alexis, I need this. I need you."
Stroking her hair back, he held her face tightly between his hands, kissing her almost savagely. She tried to read what he was feeling from his face, realised it was a mixture of grief, loneliness, and frustration. She rubbed his back as he moved away from her lips, as he kissed his way to her chest. "I love you, Blake."
The declaration only seemed to make him go faster, harder. He turned the pace up a notch, and her groan of pleasure was lost in his own hearty moan.
"I love you, Alexis." His voice was barely more than a whisper, but it echoed in her heart.
She felt him take them even deeper, and suddenly she was lost, going over the edge into a pleasure so dark and deep and wild she thought she might pass out from the sensation.
He was holding her as she came out of her dazed state.
"Alright, you really can't tell my future husband about that."
She could feel Blake's amusement as his chuckles reverberated through her body, but he did not continue the game as he started moving against her again. Riding out his pleasure, she watched it play across his face. He collapsed against her, kissing her neck.
Closing her eyes, she held him, her hands running up and down his back, her fingers sliding lightly over his skin, making him shudder. "Are you all right, Blake?"
"I'm not sure." He pulled away enough to look her in the eyes. "This feeling. It..."
She brushed back his hair, concentrating on the grief. It was probably for Sable, almost definitely for Krystle, perhaps even still for his father. She smiled in sympathy. "It overwhelms you?"
He took a long, ragged breath. "It does." Kissing her neck, he whispered, "I remember my mother did, at times, tell me that I had a tendency to wallow."
Smiling, she decided not to tell him she was thinking the same thing. "You do choose to dwell on these things."
"That is simply a more politic way of saying I wallow." Blake snorted.
"Probably so." She went back to stroking his back, and he moaned in contentment before shivering in the slight chill.
Rolling them both over, he tugged at the covers, pulling the duvet over them both. It was soft, its pillowy depth welcoming them as he pulled her into his arms, and they lay there quietly for some time.
"I needed you," Blake finally admitted.
"I know." She turned, cuddling against him, happy to be in his arms again. "I needed you."
He kissed her, slowly at first, then with rising passion. She could feel his desire rising in other places, too. She started to crawl onto him, but he shook his head, pushing her onto her back.
She smiled, sensing that he needed to control this. He wasn't hurting her, but he was moving with more force than was normal.
As her body began to respond to the almost harsh treatment, she decided the occasional frustration might be good for their future marriage. She stopped thinking then, just gave herself over to sensation, giving herself no quarter. She could tell how good it felt to him to let go, to let his body own hers.
"I love you, Alexis." His voice was low, full of gruff emotion. He kissed her wildly, and she knew her lips would be chapped by morning.
She didn't care. She kissed him back just as wildly, letting go again as his body pounding against hers sent her into bliss. She could practically feel his own pleasure burst over him, and he bit down on her lip, just hard enough to pinch.
Chapped and bruised by morning.
He began to run his hand over her hair, down her arm. The movement was territorial but his face was full of raw emotion. Fear, she realized. He was afraid. And it was something to do with her.
"What is it, Blake?"
He just shook his head. Without thought, she put her hands up to cradle his face "Tell me," she whispered.
"It is not rational."
"Tell me, anyway."
As his breathing became slower, he pulled her closer, and for a moment, she thought he was going to tell her no. Then he suddenly dropped all the barriers between them and told her all about his unreasonable fear, his dread that he was going to lose her along with everyone else he loved.
"You are going to lose me. But not right now." She held to the truth. It was theirs; they did not lie to each other. Not anymore.
"I know. You are right." Her forthrightness seemed to soothe him; she could feel him letting up on her, making her realize she'd been having trouble breathing.
He took a deep breath. "I imagine things that I do not want to think about. I cannot seem to stop my mind from conjuring up horrible visions."
"Like...?"
"You, the way I came upon you in California. Only this time you are dead. You died in our bed because I did not come home to you in time. Because I left you alone when I promised I wouldn't."
"That didn't happen. And it won't."
"You, in a car accident. You, actually been killed by one of those maniacs who has tried to murder you over the years, McVane, Rowan... You--"
"Blake, shhh. Enough." She smiled softly. "We're getting into wallow territory."
"I am aware of that." He sounded so lost she took pity on him and held him close, kissing his hair.
"I love you," she said. "And you love me. We don't know what will happen, Blake. But that doesn't mean we should obsess over it. I can't make you safe. You can't keep me that way, either. We just have to live and take our chances." She kissed his lips softly. "I know you miss Sable. I know you miss Krystle, still."
"I love you--"
"Loving me has nothing to do with missing Krystle." She smiled. It was a good truth to realise, and as she said it, it felt right. "You can miss her. I don't mind."
Confused by her unusual reaction Blake drew back from her slightly frowning as if he might be stepping into a trap and she might suddenly turn and fly at him jealously. "You were never friends."
She stroked his cheek, smiled when he turned his face to kiss her hand. "No, Blake we never were...we never could be, we both loved you, you see, she knew it as I did and as only one of us could have you..."
"Is that why we could never be friends either?" Blake asked.
Nodding Alexis sighed. "I could never forgive you for throwing me away and you…well I gave you more than enough reasons to never want to be my friend."
"I am your friend now." Blake insisted. "And I do forgive you for everything you did lashing out at me…I guess I finally understand how deep this bond between us actually is."
"Yes it is, no matter what we do, no matter how we strike at each other it will always be there. But 'Friendship' is that what you call what we just did?" She grinned at him. Then she whispered, "It seemed more like possession."
Blake nodded, dark eyes glinting playfully. "I was telling fate you were mine."
"Ah." Alexis laughed gently. "Did fate listen?"
"I do not know." Blake retorted laughing, watching as Alexis's nose crinkled slightly as she laughed along with him. This was how he wanted to spend his final years, in bed laughing and loving her.
"Well, at least you tried." She kissed him slowly, as sensuously as she could.
"If that is my reward for trying, I will endeavour to do so again." His tone was light; the expression on his face was not.
"I love you, Blake. So very, very much."
"I love you. I am glad that you are here." He moved over her again, and she smiled. "I will try not to be so possessive this time."
"That's alright. I didn't mind."
"I knew that," he whispered a smile playing around his lips, as he took her again, with only slightly less vigour.
---
Alexis could barely keep the smile from her lips all through breakfast.
Last night had been…Outstanding…Blake had been like a man possessed or at the very least determined. To prove to himself, to her, perhaps even to fate itself. Either way Alexis was not going to complain.
He had been so withdrawn since the news of Sable's death; they hadn't even properly celebrated their engagement. True she had immediately moved into the master suite but the new bed hadn't even been christened until last night. Now it was well and truly broken in and if she really didn't have to go to the office Alexis would have spent most of the morning luxuriating in its comforting embrace.
Speaking of the office she really should be moving. Blake had already left for his, but not before eliciting a promise from her to meet him for lunch in his office to 'discuss' the Korean leases.
Setting down her coffee cup Alexis picked up her briefcase and with one last check of her reflection headed for her waiting car.
"Mother."
Turning as she heard her name called Alexis smiled as a nervous Adam made his way down the staircase, smartly suited and booted, briefcase in hand.
"Off somewhere?" Alexis asked knowingly.
"I hope so." Adam replied his eyes glinting. "I want to take up that offer you made to me…I want to join you at Colby Co, if you'll still have me that is?"
Smiling broadly Alexis pulled her son into her embrace. "Oh darling of course I still want you with me! And I thought this day couldn't get any better."
Visibly relieved Adam offered his mother his arm.
Sliding her hand into the crook of his elbow Alexis allowed him to escort her to the waiting car.
---
Part 2:
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Swiping at the irritating pest that kept annoying her Alexis tried to concentrate on the plans in front of her. They had most of the details sorted, well the business details sorted but there was one last issue to sort out.
"So we can expect Minister Lin to arrive on Friday…Do you think we should ask Fallon to put together an official reception at the Carlton for the Saturday night or would a more select dinner at the mansion be appropriate?"
"Hmmmmm." Blake murmured leaning in close on pretence of looking at the plans, his attention distracted by the nearby slope of her exposed neck, to which he pressed a kiss.
"Blake!" Alexis snapped pushing Blake away and moving to the opposite seat. "You yourself asked me here to discuss this visit, if you no longer require my assistance…"
Holding up his hands in defeat Blake pretended to behave himself, pulling on the lapels of his suit he plastered a serious expression on his face. Picking up his glasses Blake scanned through the document. Yet his eyes quickly wandered as Alexis bent forward, treating him to a healthy view of her cleavage as she poured them both a cup of coffee.
"Well do you like it?" Alexis asked.
"Oh I like what I've seen so far." Blake quipped waiting until Alexis realised just where his gaze actually rested before innocently turning his attention back to the documents. "I can't wait to see the rest of it."
"The plans for the Minister?" Alexis retorted pointing at him accusingly, before leaning back as she sipped her coffee.
"I like these too just not in the same way." Blake smirked causing Alexis to roll her eyes setting down her coffee and stalking over to his desk rummaging around for the paperwork she needed.
Smiling at her annoyance Blake got to his feet and followed her, watching her stretch over his desk for a folder. Sliding his hands on to her hips Blake pressed himself against her back, muttering in her ear, "Careful my dear you are treading on the edge of a certain fantasy of mine."
Trying to push his hands away Alexis wiggled in his grasp. "Behave Blake; we need to get down to work."
Nuzzling into her neck Blake snorted at her choice of words. "Madam you are giving me ideas."
Letting her up for a moment, just enough to turn her around Blake leant in for a kiss stalled by Alexis's hand on his lips. "The Carlton or the Mansion?"
Sighing Blake realised he wasn't going to get anywhere until they had this settled "The Carlton. It will be good publicity for Fallon."
"Alright I'll ring her." Alexis replied reaching for the phone on his desk, surprised when Blake reached out and caught her hand, lifting it to his lips. Kissing her fingers he fixed her with his most hangdog expression.
"Right now?" Blake pouted, keeping his pleading expression even when she began to cave.
Biting her lip Alexis glanced at her watch.
"Well perhaps not right now…" She teased walking her fingers up his chest to loop around his neck, squeaking as Blake suddenly pushed her down against her his desk, lips quickly finding hers.
"Dad ahhhh…Sorry if this is a bad time…"
Glancing up at the door Blake felt Alexis quake with laughter beneath him. Yet he struggled to find it quite as amusing.
Spurred on by Blake's blatant irritation Alexis chuckled, "Steven darling this getting to be quite a habit of yours!"
"Yes one which I hope he grows out of sooner rather than later." Blake groused reluctantly letting his bride to be up and watching as his chances of fulfilling that particular fantasy faded with every passing nanosecond.
Gathering her paperwork and her briefcase Alexis blew a sulking Blake a kiss. "It's just as well, now I have time to drop by the hotel and discuss the requirements with Fallon personally."
Then smiling widely at a bashful Steven Alexis sauntered out of the office leaving the two men alone in awkward silence.
---
Dex stood impatiently in the drafty foyer. His strong fingers clenching impatiently around the documents he had brought with him from the hospital. Sighing deeply he tried to force out the some of his nervous tension. It felt as though he had been running on adrenaline for days, which in truth combined with vile hospital coffee he had.
"It shouldn't be much longer Mr Dexter." The vacuous secretary repeated, her large hazel eyes locked lasciviously on the handsome millionaire in front of her as she twirled her brittle bottle blonde locks around her finger in what Dex could only assume was her patented "come hither" technique.
A technique that was not proving effective as he tried to keep as far away as possible and avoiding all unnecessary attempts at communication.
Not that she seemed to be taking the hint based on the flirtatious little looks she kept sending him.
"Are you sure I can't get you any coffee?"
"No thank you." Dex replied curtly pacing away from her desk yet still able to feel her eyes burning into his back.
After what seemed like an uncomfortable eternity the door to the registrars office opened and out walked a happy couple, the pretty young wife cradling their child and Dex swallowed a pang of jealousy.
"Mr Collins your next appointment is already here." The secretary drawled into her phone sending a smile in Dex's direction.
"Yes sir I'll send him right in…" She added setting the phone. "He'll see you now sir."
"Thanks… Mandy isn't it?"
Smiling broadly as though Christmas had suddenly come again Mandy leaned forward, rewarding Dex with an unpleasant view of her slightly bulging cleavage.
"It sure is Mr Dexter…you let me know if I can be of any further help?"
"I think I can manage from here on." Dex retorted stifling a snigger as he entered the office, leaving a sulking secretary behind him.
Standing up from behind his desk Mr Collins offered Dex his hand and then a chair. "So Mr Dexter I believe today we are registering a birth?"
"Yes my son."
"Ah excellent congratulations…Was your wife not able to make it?"
Clearing his throat Dex forced down his discomfort and the latent grief, no matter their dispute Dex still cared for Sable and his son didn't deserve to grow up without his mother.
"His mother died shortly after having him and we weren't married."
Shifting uncomfortably as he put his foot in it Mr Collins reached for the required forms accepting the paperwork Dex supplied, filling in the appropriate details leaving one important space blank.
"I assume you have selected a name."
"Yes." Dex replied a brief smile of pride lighting up his face. "Jack Colby Dexter."
---
"Dad I'm sorry…Marsha was away from her desk and I did knock I just guess you were too busy to notice."
Rubbing his forehead Blake fought the blush that threatened, being walked in on by your child was almost as embarrassing as being caught by your parents. Waving his son over to a seat Blake perched on the edge of his desk.
"What can I do for you Steven?"
Rubbing his forehead in a gesture that was all too familiar to Blake, Steven paused before answering. "I guess I don't really know where to start."
Smiling Blake fought a flash of humor; he could hear Alexis's commentary in his head. "The beginning is always the best place."
Stifling a chortle Steven nodded before replying. "I thought moving to Washington…A fresh start was just what Danny and I needed but it hasn't turned out like I thought it would."
Waiting Blake chose not to comment realizing Steven needed to talk this through in his own time, in his own way.
"I guess I just never realized how hard it would be, establishing a new career and looking after Danny. I hired a nanny but I feel like he's being neglected what with me working such long hours."
Frowning Blake asked. "What about Sammy-Jo she moved to New York so she could pursue her modeling and still be close to Danny."
At this question Steven's expression turned sour. "I think Sammy-Jo has been wrapped up in her new career and her fashion designer boyfriend to be overly concerned with her son, and it's Danny who suffers. I just don't know what to do Dad…I can't seem win whatever I do."
"Sometimes son it's not about winning." Blake answered gravely. "Sometimes you have to make a choice because you can't win all the time; sometimes what is right for you might not be right for your son."
"But how do you know what is right?"
Sighing Blake shook his head. How could he offer advice on this, he was hardly impartial and he could hear Alexis in the back of his mind, urging him to get Steven to stay but was that best for his son?
Leaning forward Steven rubbed his hands together his blue eyes locked earnestly on Blake's face. "Dad I need your guidance."
"And for once I cannot tell you what to do, this is something you are going to have to work out for yourself."
Disappointed Steven leant back in his chair he had hoped his father would solve his problem, present him with the solution he had been searching for. "And in the meantime Danny suffers."
"I'm sorry Steven." Blake answered honestly. "But why don't you leave Danny here whilst you decide, I know Fallon and your mother would adore looking after him, and I am sure there would be no problem if he attended school with LB and Krystina."
Smiling softly Steven nodded, "Thanks Dad, I knew I could rely on you."
---
"Are you sure that is all you need Mother?" Fallon asked with a playful smile as she scanned down the extensive list Alexis had provided.
Alexis either ignored her daughter's sarcasm or was oblivious to it as she checked through her list one last time. "I think that will be all Fallon. I will have my team send out in the invitations if you can deal with the entertainment and caterers…"
"I have it all in hand I assure you." Fallon insisted resisting the urge to roll her eyes.
"And you have Minister Lin booked into your finest suite…And make sure his entourage is treated well, you never know when one of these junior diplomats will be promoted."
Holding her hands up in defeat Fallon laughed. "Alright Mother I promise your guests will have the best The Carlton can manage."
Picking up her gloves and slapping them against her palm Alexis looked far from amused herself. "Forgive me if I don't find this amusing Fallon this deal is worth a billion dollars to your Father and me so everything has to be perfect."
"And it will be." Fallon retorted suddenly somber. "I'm sorry Mother. But speaking of parties when are you and Daddy planning on having an engagement party of your own?"
Shrugging Alexis fiddled with her paperwork placing it back in her briefcase and shutting it with a snap. "We haven't discussed it."
"And the wedding?"
Throwing her hands up Alexis exclaimed. "What is this twenty questions?"
"Alright." Fallon retorted realising she had struck a nerve. "I'll let you get back to the office and I'll get onto these details."
"Excellent." Alexis retorted her eyes drifting from the lounge to the bar where a rather familiar figure had arrived and was ordering a drink. "I'll see you at dinner darling."
Leaving Fallon to attend to her business Alexis made her way into the bar coming up behind the solitary drinker. "Are you celebrating or drowning your sorrows Mr Dexter?"
Turning on his stool Dex smiled. "Well Mrs Colby I guess it is a little bit of both. I've had a rough week but I just registered my son's birth so that is definite cause for celebration."
"That is cause for celebration. Care for some company?" Alexis asked.
"That depends?" Dex muttered. "Is Blake going to jump out and accuse me of trying to get you into bed if I offer to buy you a martini?"
"Oh probably but I think we can risk it!" Alexis quipped waving the barman over, her diamond engagement ring glinting in the light.
Freezing Dex watched her sip her drink, his dark eyes locked on her ring, swallowing down his drink quickly and ordering another to try and quell the sick feeling that bubbled up. Yet like a masochist he just couldn't leave it alone until he knew the truth. "So when's the wedding?"
Glancing at him over the rim of her martini glass, Alexis smiled taking a sip of her drink before answering. "What makes you ask that?"
"Oh I don't know…The diamond the size of the rock of Gibraltar on your ring finger!" Dex quipped bitterly.
"Oh this ole thing…" Alexis teased. "Well we have been a little busy but as soon as we set a date…"
"I'll anxiously wait for my invite." Dex finished sarcastically for her before finishing off his refill.
Shifting awkwardly Alexis decided to change the subject. "So as we are wetting the baby's head do I get to know his name?"
"Jack…Jack Colby Dexter."
"I like it but then I already said that." Alexis answered raising her drink in a silent toast. "How is he doing?"
"He's stable…The Doctor's are just waiting until his lungs to clear completely before they operate on his heart." Dex answered taking another sip, rubbing the glass in his frustration. Surprised when Alexis reached across and covered his hand with her own stroking it gently.
"He'll make it Dex. He is his father's son after all and Dexter's are a tough breed."
Snorting in amusement at her choice of words and her earnest expression Dex nodded, threading his fingers through hers. "Well if you say so I have to believe it after all Alexis Colby is never wrong."
Laughing Alexis lifted her glass toasting him. "Well I am just glad you finally realised that Mr Dexter, it's taken you long enough!"
Laughing along with her Dex took a sip of his bourbon, perhaps she was right, perhaps now everything would be alright?
---
Part 3:
---
"This looks nothing like The Carlton?" Alexis commented leaning back against the plush seat of the limousine as it came to a stop not in front of the hotel like she expected but on the smooth tarmac of Denver airport.
"Did I say we were going to the Carlton?" Blake replied his expression as innocent as he could manage as the driver opened the door for them. "I must have gotten my days mixed up…After all we are going there this weekend."
"So where are we going?" Alexis demanded accepting Blake's hand to get out of the car, shaking out the long skirt of her black beaded evening dress.
Placing her hand in the crook of his elbow Blake escorted her to the waiting jet. "That would ruin the surprise!"
"Blake…"
"Just indulge me." Blake pleaded, dark eyes soft, and Alexis knew she never stood a chance of refusing him when he looked at her like that. So she boarded the plane without further complaint.
"Fine but I had better like it." She insisted after taking a seat on the sofa, smiling when Blake sat close by, sliding his hand along the back of the seat to stroke her bare shoulders as they taxied down the runway.
"Oh I think you are going to love it." Blake teased resting his other hand on her stocking'd knee, rubbing it gently. "Now are you going to spend the next few hours nagging me or…"
He broke off smiling sliding his hand up the slit in her long skirt, and pressing a kiss to her collarbone.
"Or what?" Alexis countered pushing his hand back into more neutral territory as they took to the air.
"I always credited you as a woman of imagination." Blake retorted leaning in to steal a kiss.
Stopping his lips a hairs breath from hers with a well-manicured finger Alexis leant back out of his reach.
"Oh no Mr Carrington…You're dragging me off to god knows where and then expect to be indulged; since I don't have my makeup with me how can you expect me to fix the damage you intend to reek?"
Smiling charmingly with a hint of the devil in his eyes Alexis was immediately reminded of the playful charmer who had stolen her heart over thirty years before. Blake pulled away getting out of his seat and crossing to the chilling bottle of champagne, twisting out the cork he poured one glass before returning to sit beside her. Taking a sip he handed the glass to Alexis.
"To us."
"To us." Alexis echoed the toast. Accepting it with a slight smile she drank deeply, eyeing him warily; waiting for the other shoe to drop. "So are you going to tell me where on earth you are taking me?"
Laughing Blake threw his head back, truly tickled by her persistence. "You can't stand it can you…You're like a little child wheedling."
"I'm curious!"
"You're incorrigible." Blake countered taking the glass from her he set it on the table the devilish grin now released to full effect. "Now if I promise to be careful…"
Snorting softly in amusement Alexis did nothing to stop him, moaning as his lips trailed their way up her neck. She could only hope whenever they arrived they didn't encounter anyone she knew, she was bound to look a state.
---
Stretching out on his bed Dex tried to rest, it had been a long day all round. He had a long talk with Jack's doctors who were cautiously optimistic providing they could operate soon before his son's condition deteriorated.
There had been two highpoints, registering his son's name and the unexpected meeting with Alexis. She could still lift his mood with a smile and dash it just easily; fortunately today she had sought to raise his spirits. Though the news of her engagement to Blake had left a bitter taste in his mouth.
He was finally dozing when the banging started.
Staggering towards the door he pulled on his dressing gown, trying the belt loosely about his waist.
"Alright Alright I'm coming." Dex called out as the banging continued persistent.
Pulling the door open he was stunned to come face to face with an irate Monica whose eyes dropped momentarily to his bare chest her face flushing. Stepping back she fought for composure.
"Monica what are you doing here?" Dex demanded.
Barging past him into his suite Monica thrust a handful of papers under his nose. "Explain these."
Taking them from her Dex scanned the first few lines. "They seem obvious to me, it's a birth certificate." He added flinging it down on the desk. "What could possibly need explaining?"
"Jack Colby Dexter!" Monica retorted her eyes flashing.
"You don't like the name?" Dex asked his tone falsely light hearted.
Scowling Monica spat back. "What right did you have to name him? Mother wanted him called Pierce…Or possibly Maxwell but never Jack, she would never have agreed to calling him such a common name." Monica insisted
"He's my son!" Dex retorted. "That should give me all the rights I need."
Shaking her head Monica gathered up her documents stuffing them back into her briefcase and retrieving one other, flinging it down she arched a plucked eyebrow. "Are you completely certain of that?"
Picking it up Dex quickly recognized it for what it was. "Sable's will?"
"In which she named both myself and Blake Carrington as joint guardians." Monica gloated. "And mentions you not at all."
"I am his father!" Dex bellowed slamming the damning document down.
Pulling herself together Monica headed towards the door but before she left she had one parting shot. "Are you completely certain of that?"
---
Swirling the wine around in his glass Steven looked around the dining room. It would be the last time he dined here for a while.
"So Steven are you on the morning flight?" Dana asked politely as the conversation had stilted.
"Yes." Steven answered briefly.
"It's a shame that Blake and Alexis couldn't be here." Dana added surprised when Adam snorted in derision.
"Did you have something to add Adam?" Jeff asked and attention turned to a Adam who had been strangely silent throughout most of the meal.
Returning Jeff's glare for a moment Adam then gazed at his waiting siblings. "Oh I am sure that was by design."
"What was?" Dana asked confusion marring her lovely face.
Smiling indulgently at her Adam enlightened them all. "I think Father took Mother out for the evening so she couldn't take dear little Steven to task for abandoning his beloved son."
"Adam!" Jeff gasped, restraining Fallon who all but jumped out of her seat ready to defend her little brother.
"What?" Adam demanded taking another sip of his wine before reaching for the bottle.
Reaching across Dana placed a restraining hand on his arm. "Adam darling don't you think you've had enough?"
Fixing her with a disbelieving look Adam paused before refilling his glass. "Why because I speak the truth? We all know what is going on here…Baby brother Steven is running away again except this time he is dumping his responsibility on Mother and Father."
"Adam…"
"How dare you of all people accuse anyone of running away from responsibilities? You who ran away and left Mother…Hid from the police…" Fallon cut Jeff off rising in Steven's defense. "What right do you have to question his motives, who are you to criticize anyone's parenting?"
Jumping to his feet Adam fairly shook with restrained fury. "How dare you? I am a member of this family whether you like it or not, I came back to Denver to face my responsibilities. And as for my parenting, may I remind you my son had to be ripped from my arms, Steven leaves his behind like a unwanted puppy!"
"Adam…" Dana tried again but a fuming Adam refused to be placated storming out of the dining room without a backward glance and so getting to her feet she raced after him.
"I'm sorry Steven…" Jeff muttered awkwardly getting to his feet. Glancing at Fallon he smiled uncomfortably. "I'll just check on the children."
Sitting back down Fallon turned to comfort her younger brother. "Well that went well…You shouldn't take what Adam says to heart, he's just…just…"
Turning to face her Steven smiled sadly. "It's alright Fallon I stopped caring what Adam thought about me a long time ago…It's just…"
"Just?"
Sighing Steven took a deep sip of his wine. "I guess it wouldn't rattle me so badly if deep down I didn't know he was right."
---
Sinking into Blake's arms Alexis allowed him to guide her across the floor, the soft swell of the orchestra serenading them. An oh so familiar tune causing her to laugh and press a kiss to Blake's cheek.
"Thank you."
"Well it wasn't too awful then?" Blake quipped spinning Alexis out in a timed maneuver.
"It was wonderful!" Alexis retorted spinning back into him, swaying in time with the music. "The opera…dinner and now dancing…You really are spoiling me."
"Only the best for my girl." Blake retorted playfully before his face became serious. "I just wanted to make it up to you. We've had a rough week and no time to celebrate our engagement proper."
"Oh Blake it's so romantic…We used to dance all night before we were married, remember?"
Nodding Blake smiled as he leant in to whisper in her ear. "Only because your Mother refused to let me spend the night in." Blake muttered.
Slapping his chest Alexis rested her head against his shoulder. "Well you can hardly blame her, it wasn't exactly proper."
"Whereas you were the very measure of a respectable young lady!" Blake retorted sarcastically. "Or was it another young beauty who snuck me into her hotel room through the back entrance and then smuggled me out again with the help of a cooperative bellhop?"
"You bribed him!" Alexis scoffed poking his chest.
"I know…It was the best twenty five bucks I ever spent!" Blake retorted waggling his eyebrow lasciviously. "Care to sneak off with me again Ms Morell?"
Laughing Alexis slipped her hand up around his neck running her fingers through his hair. "Anytime Mr Carrington."
"And this time I get to keep my money."
"Blake…." Alexis squealed as his hand slipped lower than proper when dancing.
Smiling Blake pulled her firmly against him nodding at the waiting attendant to bring Alexis's wrap. "I think it's time to retire don't you?"
Sliding her hand into his Alexis smiled at their interlinked fingers her diamond engagement ring twinkling brightly. "Wherever you want to take me Mr Carrington…I'll be here…I'll always be here with you."
---
Part 4:
---
Smiling to himself Blake surveyed his handwork with a sense of deep satisfaction. It had been quite a while since he had used this skill, and although even he would admit to being more a little rusty he was feeling more than a little pleased with himself. Now if he could only get out of here without anyone being the wiser.
Yet the prospect of that grew suddenly dim when his shuffling presence managed to wake one sleeping inhabitant, dark eyes looking up at him in excitement and the newly woken youngster jumped up at his legs.
"Good boy...Go back in your basket." Blake shushed the puppy but instead the attention caused Mr Kensington to yap in reply, bouncing about Blake's feet.
Inwardly cursing Fallon's choice of Christmas present Blake had little choice but to let the dog follow him upstairs. Pushing open the bedroom door Blake smiled at the darkness and the soft sound of breathing as he crept forward, his target now in his sights even through the gloom.
Yet he should have known when everything else had gone as planned that something was bound to go wrong. And it did in the most spectacular fashion.
A foot from the bed he tripped over an eager Mr Kensington who barked in excitement, waking Alexis suddenly just as Blake and the tray of breakfast he had prepared came plummeting towards her.
"You idiot!" Alexis huffed falling back against her pillow and pulling up the duvet so that not a piece of spilled breakfast got onto her hand sewn Italian silk nightgown.
"Blast!" Blake muttered as he sheepishly surveyed the destruction, pausing before he scrambled to pick up bits off egg that had fallen onto the comforter pushing an excitedly yapping Mr Kensington out of the way. "Stay down you damn dog!"
"Don't yell at him..." Alexis retorted sharply reaching down for the puppy, who bounded eagerly back on to the bed, his black nose sniffing excitedly at the split food.
"Bad dog leave it!" Blake barked; the reasons why he had never had another dog after the first Mr Kensington had passed away flooding back to him.
Placing the remains of the omelette back onto the plate Blake cursed fate, Labradors and whatever vile creatures that had conspired to destroy the one omelette that he managed to create that looked halfway decent. Catching Alexis's less than impressed expression he couldn't bite back a hurt retort.
"They say it's the thought that counts!"
Rolling her eyes at his petulant pouting Alexis huffed stroking the puppy's fur, "Then what on earth were you thinking?...I know let's see if I can find a way of waking up Alexis that will ruin her good mood for the rest of the morning?"
Irritated by her sarcasm and the way the now contented dog seemed to be smirking at him, Blake scowled. "It was supposed to be breakfast in bed...You want me to be romantic."
"And showering me in...in...this gloop." Alexis sneered in disgust poking at the hodgepodge that now sat slumped on her tray. "That is your idea of romance?"
"You'd still look beautiful." Blake muttered sullenly. "Even 'coated in gloop'. Whereas I..." He broke off sinking back down onto the bed, reaching up to pick disdainfully at the egg that had smeared into his silver hair. "Well I know where the prize for my worst idea goes to."
Unable to stop herself Alexis laughed out loud at his dejected appearance. "Oh come here you foolish man."
Sitting up she picked the food out of his hair. "It was a lovely thought Blake just next time..."
"Leave the dog downstairs?" Blake quipped, relieved that her irritation was thawing.
"Yes and I would suggest serving only toast, just to be safe!" Alexis countered and they embraced across the tray of breakfast, forgetting for a moment about the viscous state of Blake's omelette as they pressed closer. Blake's lips seamlessly found hers and they kissed passionately until they pulled apart panting and a peeved Mr Kensington tried to worm between them.
"Oh you jealous thing..." Alexis muttered picking the wiggling puppy up and setting him on the floor much to Blake's satisfaction where he barked in annoyance at being excluded.
Yet Blake's pleasure and the romantic mood didn't last as Alexis caught sight of the unattractive stain that now marred her nightgown.
Swallowing as her face flushed with temper Blake shot up from the bed fumbling for the napkin. "Oh let me get you a cloth for that..."
"Don't bother!" Alexis huffed pushing his hand away as he tried to dab at her chest. "It's ruined! Honestly what is the point, I might as well wear a Kaymart special...Men have no common sense, this is silk Blake."
Huffing at her abrupt change of mood Blake fell back on the bed, ignoring Alexis's squeak of protest as the tray jumped at his sudden movement.
Answering her accusing glare Blake snorted sarcastically, "Well there is no need for me to be careful anymore...But I was right about one thing you are still beautiful even 'covered in gloop'."
Scowling at his less than sympathetic answer Alexis couldn't help herself; she was the one who had been woken up, whose expensive nightgown was ruined and it was his fault yet he was the one acting the victim. She just wanted to wipe that sulking expression of his face. So before she had thought it through properly she snatched up a stray piece of toast and threw in his direction, her satisfaction only increasing when Blake yelped and tried to leap away, rolling off the bed onto the floor.
Rubbing his sore behind Blake pushed away the bouncing puppy who tried to crawl all over him licking at the egg stain on his collar; his look suddenly turning vicious and Alexis gulped nervously as he paced around the bed. "Oh you want to play..."
"Blake no…" Alexis begged her eyes widening and when that had no visible effect she tried to make a break for the far side of the bed.
Moving faster, Blake captured her by the ankle and yanked her back onto the bedspread. Not caring as the tray went flying, eggs, fruit and toast now spilled over the bed, Mr Kensington circling the four poster barking excitedly.
"Blake let me go…The food is going everywhere…" Alexis gasped but he refused to release her, instead he crawled over her pining her down on the bed, eyes glinting devilishly as picked up a piece of slightly squashed strawberry.
"You wouldn't dare!" Alexis hissed her eyes widening in horror as Blake proceeded to ignore her warning and smear the fruit across her chest. "You...You...Idiot"
"I can't help it; I'm an idiot, apparently." Blake retorted reaching for another piece.
This time Alexis reached for it as well, arriving at the same moment and a brief struggle ensued, a struggle which Blake deliberately lost just so she could have the pleasure of returning the favour; smearing the fruit across his cheek.
Smiling at the satisfied expression on her face Blake ignored her squeak of protest leaning down to kiss her soundly. Feeling her finally relax beneath him Blake pulled away, his glinting dark eyes fixed on her emerald ones. "Are we even yet?"
Laughing at his playful tone Alexis reached for the last strawberry rubbing it between her fingers, her amusement growing as Blake's eyes watched it warily; pleasantly surprised when instead she held it to his lips, offering him a bite.
"It tastes good." Blake commented as Alexis tried it herself, his amusement growing as she nibbled at the berry seductively licking her fingers.
"Such a shame there isn't any left!" Alexis retorted, wiggling beneath him to try and get him to move.
Yet Blake obstinately refused to shift and the way he eyed her was making Alexis nervous, he looked ready to devour her whole.
"Blake please...I think I've got fruit in my hair."
"So I've got egg in mine." Blake retorted dangerously his face now inches from her own.
Wrinkling her nose in disgust, Alexis's distaste soon turned to amusement, giggling as Blake began to lap at her chest, "Ewww Blake stop it..."
"Hmm you taste nice." Blake muttered against her skin, his lips moving across her chest. His progress suddenly impeded as he felt a tugging on his pyjama bottoms. And it wasn't his bride to be.
Lifting his head he turned to scowl over his shoulder where a determined Mr Kensington had the hem of his pyjamas in his teeth and was doing his best to drag Blake off of his mistress.
"Damn dog let go!" Blake hissed trying to shake the puppy off, yet it only seemed to encourage him, wagging his tail as if Blake had taken up his offer to play.
Reluctantly Blake rolled off of her, hobbling on one foot as he tried to get off the bed, the puppy dragging the now hopping Blake halfway across the room.
Laughing so hard she thought she might split in two Alexis rolled back the comforter and threw herself back into the warm hollow she had been nestled in. Picking up the only remaining bit of food – a semi-burned slice of toast – she began to nibble tentatively, watching as Blake finally seemed to win the war against the dog, bundling him out of the room.
Huffing Blake stalked back across the room and slid under the covers beside her. Only now able to survey the destruction their little food fight had wrought on the previously pristine 600 thread count bedding. "Oh my."
"Oh my indeed." Alexis countered, a teasing smile pulling at her lips. "I simply cannot wait to see how you will explain this to housekeeping."
Laughing out loud Blake pulled her to him, determined to pick up somewhere around where he left off retorting smugly. "Oh that's easy I'll just blame it on the dog."
---
Standing beside the incubator Dex watched the nurse's every movement as she removed the chest drain from his son.
"There we go that's better…" She spoke aloud to baby Jack before turning to his father. "We're going to try him on a bottle in a minute Mr Dexter would you care to do the honours?"
Smiling at the thought of finally holding his son Dex nodded and the nurse turned and left them alone. Reaching his hand through the hole in the side of the incubator Dex stroked his son's hand a feeling of unexpected warmth welling up inside him as his boy instinctively curled his hand around one of his father's fingers.
"You just keep getting stronger Jack…" Dex muttered his other hand drifting to stroke the tuft of dark hair that adorned his son's tiny head.
Marvelling that something so small had him completely captivated, he would never have believed how strong this love for a child could be until he experienced it himself. It suddenly threw light on some of Alexis's behaviour over the years, he had always accused her of putting her children before him in every circumstance, unable to understand how she could claim to love him and still delegate him to second place in her life. Now he could, perhaps he owed her an apology?
Suddenly the door behind him banged open and Dex whirled round, frowning as he saw not the nurse or one of Jack's doctors but an armed security guard.
"Step away from the child Mr Dexter." The guard barked.
Perplexed Dex gaped, spotting an ashen Dr Ramsay arriving he demanded. "What is the meaning of this?"
"I'm sorry Mr Dexter we don't have any choice in the matter…Would you please come with me?"
"I'm not leaving my son until you start explaining!" Dex all but yelled his eyes flicking to the security guard who was muttering into his walky-talky.
"Please." The doctor pleaded eyeing the all too eager guard nervously. "Don't let this escalate any further."
Reluctantly Dex followed the Doctor out of the room the Guard following them both and taking up his post outside the nursery.
"Alright Doctor what the hell is going on?" Dex demanded his patience at an end. "How dare you demand I leave my own child."
"I am sorry but we had no choice. These papers were just delivered, it's a court order, awarding temporary custody of the Colby baby to his named guardian Monica Colby."
"WHAT!" Dex bellowed unable to believe what he was hearing. "But he's my son…I have rights…"
"I know and normally I would agree with you. I am not aware of the particulars something about Mrs Colby never naming or acknowledging your paternity. I'm a Doctor not a Lawyer I'm afraid."
"No but Monica is!" Dex spat bitterly eyeing the security guard for a moment as if weighing up his chances before commonsense stopped him.
Running his fingers through his hair Dex paced up and down the corridor. "This is insane, everyone knows he's mine…Dammit you just have to look at him!" Dex added desperately pleading with the Doctor.
Swallowing nervously Doctor Ramsay paused before delivering the final bombshell. "I'm afraid there is more. Along with the custody agreement there was a restraining order…I am sorry Mr Dexter but it orders you to remain at all times two hundred yards from the minor Colby. So I am going to have to ask you to vacate the hospital and not to return."
"And if I refuse?" Dex gasped hollowly.
"Then I will have no choice but to call the police…I am truly sorry."
Unable to believe what he was now hearing Dex grasped for something, anything, before hitting on something. "But what about a paternity test that would prove I am his father…"
"I cannot carry that out without permission from his current guardian." Doctor Ramsay added, the tone of his voice showing just how likely he thought that would be. "Or an appropriate court order."
"This cannot be happening." Dex mumbled more to himself. "She can't take my son from me I won't let her do this."
"I am sorry but I have to ask you to leave now."
Shaking Dex reluctantly started towards the elevators, numbness setting in. "But what about his operation…Monica is going to go ahead like you suggested right?"
"I'm sorry but I cannot discuss his condition with you. Patient Confidentiality. Goodbye Mr Dexter." Doctor Ramsay replied stonily and Dex all but crumpled at the finality in his tone.
Staggering into the lift he fumbled for the ground floor button, he needed to see his lawyer, he needed to sort this out, he couldn't let Monica get away with this. Yet at the moment he could barely think straight, he felt so numb and in this state he knew there is only one person he could turn to, one person who would go for the jugular on his account. He only hoped her fiancé would let him anywhere near her.
---
Part 5
---
"Darling it all looks fabulous." Alexis gushed looking around the main reception room at The Carlton. Every surface was festooned with large draping cream flower arrangements, the scent of roses and jasmine hung in the air, and light from the two large crystal chandeliers reflected in the many mirrors that lined the walls.
The string quartet were already warming up in the corner, and smartly turned out white coated waiters were already waiting with large silver trays filled with bubbling flutes of champagne.
"You look rather fabulous yourself Mother." Fallon replied kissing Alexis's cheek and admiring the simple lines of the sleeveless black chiffon dress that skimmed her mother's curves and fell in graceful waves to the floor. The asymmetric neckline, lending the dress originality, much like the wearer, and the simple black colour meant that the fabulous diamond necklace stood out all the more, as did the engagement ring that sat in pride of place on her left hand, no long satin gloves to cover up that jewel.
"And what about poor Blake?" Blake demanded making an appearance in the doorway, looking very dapper in his tuxedo.
"You'll do." Alexis muttered playfully eliciting a hurt gasp from Blake.
"I'll do?" Blake huffed. "If that's all I might as well head home and leave you here to do all the work."
"Oh you look dashing darling!" Alexis insisted laughing at his pout. "As well you know."
Giggling at her parent's play fighting Fallon waved over a waiter accepting a glass of champagne and passing another to her mother. "To a successful evening!"
Joining her toast Alexis sighed contently as she sipped the fine champagne. "And the most talented of daughters."
"Here Here." Blake echoed walking towards both his girls, kissing a blushing Fallon before returning to Alexis's side sliding his arm around her waist.
"Shall we?" He asked waving towards the closed doors behind which many of Denver's elite had already gathered for pre-party drinks in the bar.
"Why not." Alexis answered with a smile, slipping naturally into her place by Blake's side greeting their guests as if she had never been away.
---
Smiling and greeting acquaintance Jeff circled the room looking for a certain lady. A certain illusive lady who he was certain was up to something. Fallon had been on edge all week, ever since Alexis had charged her with providing the party at The Carlton.
Slipping out of the room Jeff frowned as yet more people seemed to be arriving. He was sure Alexis had insisted it was to be a select party, prominent members of the Denver business community, a few key socialites and some party representatives yet it was starting to look like half of Denver was turning up.
Finally he caught sight of Fallon sloping off to her office deep in conversation with what looked like the society columnist for The Chronicle. Intrigued he followed at a discrete distance stopping the door from closing behind them, and pressing his ear against the crack.
"And your can guarantee it will make the front page?"
"Mrs Colby with a scoop like this I can assure you, it probably won't be the headline, the news desk always manage to grab that but if we can get a picture of the happy couple together during the announcement…"
"Well if you have your photographer in position I will give you the signal." Fallon replied. "We can sneak him in from the terrace."
"Excellent we'll wait in the lounge until then." The journalist insisted shaking Fallon's hand before heading towards the door.
Stepping back just in time to avoid getting hit in the face by the opening door, Jeff waited until Fallon followed her a moment later grabbing his wife by the arm.
"Jeff?" Fallon gasped trying to pull her arm from his grip, yet his hold on her was firm as was the penetrating look in his dark blue eyes.
"Alright Fallon perhaps you'd care to tell me what exactly you are up to?"
---
"I am very impressed Mr Carrington you have outdone yourself." Minister Lin insisted scanning the room watching as his junior associates were skilfully introduced and shared around leading members of Denver society.
"Why thank you Minister, although I really cannot take the credit, that must in fairness go to the ladies." Blake replied graciously waving towards Alexis and Fallon who were each doing their best to circulate and tend to the guests.
"Mrs Colby is very good at this is she not?"
"Well she has had a lot practice." Blake replied with a smile. "But yes networking is a particular talent, it comes naturally."
"Much like her beauty…If I were not a married man…" Minister Lin mused with a smile.
"I'm afraid you'd have to get in line, and as the man at the head of that queue I wouldn't fancy your chances Minister."
Laughing at Blake's polite yet pointed warning Minister Lin held his hands up in defeat. "I yield Carrington, I should have realised there was something going on between the two of you in Washington, there was enough electricity between you, how is it phrased, 'to power a city block'."
As if sensing Blake's eyes on her Alexis turned and sashayed through the crowd, picking up a glass of champagne on the way.
"How are you enjoying our little party Minister?" Alexis asked pleasantly surprised when Blake quite naturally slid his arm about her waist.
"It is quite delightful Mrs Colby." The Minister insisted. "Are you sure you will not consider leaving the oil business behind and throwing parties on a permanent basis?"
"Oh no sorry, I do love a good party but I think I might miss the cut and thrust of the boardroom a little too much." Alexis replied with a smile, a smile that didn't quite meet her eyes as she spotted guests arriving that she certainly hadn't invited.
"Blake did you…"
"Ladies and Gentlemen may I have your attention please?" Fallon's voice sounded across the gentle babble of conversation, amplified by the microphone that had been set up in front of the musicians.
"Alexis what is going on?" Blake muttered in her ear, surprised when Alexis turned to him confusion clear on her face.
"I would just like to take this opportunity to thank you all for coming here tonight. It is a special night for more than one reason. Not only is this party to celebrate the latest combined venture of Denver Carrington and Colby Co with their New Korean partners, it is also the first event held at the newly renovated Carlton but there is one other reason that this night is so special… Would my parents be so kind as to come up here?"
Bemused Blake took Alexis's elbow and escorted her towards the stage.
"Fallon?" Blake murmured his brow drawing close in a minute frown.
Smiling at her father the way she had as a teenage when she was about to drop a particularly large bombshell Fallon turned back to her waiting audience.
"It gives me great pleasure to announce the engagement of Blake Carrington and Alexis Colby."
The applause was sudden, deafening and unexpected, as was the flash of cameras.
"Oh god." Alexis gasped turning to glance at Blake, worried about his reaction.
Meeting her eye Blake's dark gaze bore into hers, his expression giving nothing away, yet Alexis could tell under the surface he was fuming. "Did you have anything to do with this?"
---
Part 6
---
"Shame Steven couldn't be bothered to stick around, not even for his own parent's engagement party."
"Adam Darling." Dana muttered her blue eyes pleading. "Not now." She added relieved when Adam grudgingly bit back any further comments and finished his drink instead.
Yet Dana had forgotten that Adam wasn't the only strongly opinioned Carrington and she was powerless to stop Fallon turning on him angrily her own temper frayed from earlier and she was in no mood to listen to Adam's bile. "I wish you'd get off of Steven's case Adam it wasn't like he could fly back on such short notice, I only managed to talk to him this morning."
"Why should I?" Adam demands taking another drink from a passing tray. "He gets to run off abandoning his own child, leaving his family to pursue his own goals, probably hot footing it back to whatever boy toy he is shacking up with this week and he still gets to be the blue eyed boy, the favoured son."
"You're being ridiculous."
"Am I?" Adam scoffed. "Do you really think Mother doesn't mind the fact that he's not here? I mean he at least knew it was going to be announced tonight which is more than the rest of us did...Including Mother and Father I noticed, and didn't Father look delighted." Adam added sarcastically but pointedly fixing his mocking gaze on his sister.
Swallowing down the sharp retort she had been planning Fallon found herself unable to counter that argument. Her announcement and the surprise addition to their party had not gone down exactly like she had expected. Blake had been politeness and all smiles for the guests but the look he shot her and the pale nervousness on Alexis's face had made her uneasy. An argument was brewing.
The fact that he had stormed off without saying anything made her feel worse rather than better and she wished she hadn't seen the flicker of disappointment on Alexis's face; somehow she didn't think the fact that Steven had decided to stay in Washington was what was bothering her mother the most at the moment.
"Mother understands why Steven couldn't make it."
"Oh she 'understands'." Adam retorted rolling his eyes. "But it bothers her nonetheless, they both do. Do you really think she hasn't noticed his less than enthusiastic response to their engagement? He has hardly taken pains to disguise his disapproval now has he? So how else is she to take his absence but as a sign he is less than enthusiastic about their reunion."
"Adam you are making a mountain out of a molehill."
"But of course you would say that, his beloved big sister rushing to defend him in his absence." Adam snorted. "The only one taken in by this farce is you Fallon, you're so anxious to play happy families that you refuse to see what is right under your nose. This family is falling apart and I think it's time you decided just whose side you are really on? Ours or his?"
"You're wrong." Fallon stuttered shaking her head in disbelief before spotting an escape route as one of her staff signalled for her attention. "Excuse me."
Waiting until Fallon had left a teary eyed Dana turned accusingly to Adam. "Why do you have to do this?"
"Me?" Adam asked aghast.
"Yes you!" Dana retorted. "Dammit Adam just for once couldn't you keep what you think to yourself?"
"I only said the truth." Adam replied defensively.
Shaking her head Dana sighed, despairing that he just didn't seem to understand what she was trying to say, "No matter who it hurts?" She asked softly not waiting for his answer turning and disappearing into the crowd.
"Dana." Adam called out, pushing the passing waiter out of his way he followed in her wake; oblivious to the pair of pained emerald eyes that watched her children scatter.
Unable to believe what her ears had heard. Trembling slightly her eyes automatically sought out her rock in all this turmoil. True he had been somewhat standoffish ever since the announcement, insisting in that cool tone of his they would address this matter "Later"; he almost definitely didn't quite believe her when she insisted she had nothing to do with Fallon's little coup but even so this was something they needed to tackle together.
Grabbing a drink from a passing waiter, she walked over to Blake sliding her hand into the crook of his elbow surprising him and his new friend, who stared at her, as if unsure why she was suddenly hanging about.
Awkwardly Blake stopped talking and with forced politeness made the introductions, "This is my fiancée Alexis. She is also involved in the Oil business."
"A pleasure…Walter Grunnings, from Texas." Blake's companion was suddenly gushing charm but Alexis could feel herself bristling at the falseness of it all. "Likewise."
"Darling have you seen Fallon, I understand she needed to speak to you" Blake said in an attempt at civility but his meaning was all too clear.
Alexis felt her cheeks get hot. He'd just dismissed her; he hadn't done that for years and she had foolishly thought that was because she had finally earned his respect. "I could. I'm not sure I want to, dear." She turned to Walter. "I've never had the chance to talk with a real Texan cowboy before."
"Your loss, I'm sure." Grunnings's charm was slipping.
"Alexis, if you don't mind...?" Blake gestured with his chin toward Fallon.
She was too mad to blush. She had a feeling her face had gone white. "Of course. I'll leave you two boys alone." She made her way back across the room, but not to Fallon, instead she strode over to the bar startling Dex as she all but barged him out of the way.
"Going somewhere important?"
Following her over Dex leaned against the bar watching as she tried to get the busy barman's attention. Huffing in frustration as she had to wait. "Got a thirst on?"
"I need a drink!" Alexis all but spat causing Dex to start in surprise as she glanced at him and then promptly took the whiskey glass out of his hand and downed the drink in one gulp, gasping as the strong alcohol burned her throat.
"Hey take it easy." Dex muttered frowning as Alexis waved the barman over and ordered a refill, so he intercepted the drink before she could down that one as well.
"That's mine!" Alexis demanded her green eyes flickering with anger, her hand outstretched waiting for him to hand it over.
Shaking his head Dex finished it himself, his strong fingers closing around her arm as he pulled her towards the dance floor; they made a striking couple dressed simply and elegantly in black, and heads turned as they passed before returning to gossip about this new twist to the evening.
"Dex let me go." Alexis hissed whilst trying to keep a pleasant smile on her face as the people they passed wished her congratulations.
Ignoring her request Dex slipped his hand round her waist and strong-armed her into a dance, his powerful hand rest lightly but firmly in the small of her back so she had little chance of escaping.
"And ruin the fun for your adoring public? I think half the eyes of Denver are upon us Milady, probably awaiting the arrival of the jealous bridegroom."
Snorting Alexis shook her head; her eyes locked on the buttons of his dress shirt, mentally counting them and admiring, merely aesthetically, the outline of his abs before she trusted herself to answer. "If he even notices you mean."
Raising an eyebrow at the bitterness in her voice Dex lowered his head so he could speak lowly in her ear and not be overheard, inhaling the distinct perfume that seemed to cling to her hair. "What is that supposed to mean?"
"I mean Dex that my adoring fiancé is more interested in increasing Denver Carrington coffers than he is on dancing attendance on his bride to be."
"Well I always said the man was a fool." Dex retorted pleased when Alexis had to stifle a laugh, resting her forehead momentarily against his chest as she fought for control.
"But I wouldn't take it too much to heart, business is business, as soon as Blake has the fish he is trying to land well and truly hooked he will be back." Dex added, sighing softly in disappointment when she lifted her head from its resting place.
"Well who says he will be welcome?" Alexis snapped turning to glare at the back of Blake's head.
"Oh I know that look." Dex teased his dark eyes glinting. "Poor Blake."
"Poor Blake!" Alexis started truly astounded by his attitude. "How can you possibly feel sorry for him…"
"Because I know how it feels to be on the receiving end of that look and your temper Alexis." Dex countered twirling her away from him and then pulling her back in, leaning close so that his breath teased her cheek and he could inhale another lungful of that scent then he asked. "Why don't you cut him a little slack?"
"I will--When he earns it."
"Ooh you are in fine mood." Dex muttered before adding under his breath. "Hardly the right time to ask for a favour…"
Frowning as she caught his words Alexis glanced up at him in confusion. "What favour?"
"Not here…Not now" Dex answered softly his playful expression vanishing as his eyes clouded with pain and his hand already hot, tightened on her back until she could feel his fingers pressing into her flesh even through her dress. "Can you meet me on Monday…I need your help with something."
"Of course, come to my office in the morning." Alexis answered curious, her eyes widening as Dex continued to look troubled, sliding the hand that rest loosely on his shoulder to cup his jaw tenderly. "Dex what is it? It's serious I can see it in your eyes…It's not the baby, I thought he was doing so much better?"
Shaking his head Dex refused to answer. "I can't…Not now; I don't want to ruin your evening."
"But…"
"May I cut in?"
Blake's voice sounded pleasant but it was obviously less of a question and more of a command. Dex reluctantly moved to oblige, surprised when Alexis's fingers tightened on his hand, holding him fast.
Turning to face Blake Alexis smiled sweetly yet her eyes flashed warningly. "That depends darling, are you planning on running off a moment later because you simply most speak to so and so?"
"I guess I deserve that." Blake retorted gruffly, holding out a hand his dark eyes now thawed of their previous iciness now pleaded with her not to make him grovel.
"Hmm." Alexis huffed, clearly not convinced, yet she took the offered olive branch and stepped out of Dex's arms into Blake's waiting embrace.
"Dexter." Blake muttered sharply, nodding farewell to the younger man his arm wrapping around Alexis's waist pulling her close, an overtly territorial gesture as they stepped into a slow waltz.
For a long moment neither spoke, Alexis content to make him sweat a bit longer and Blake waiting for the other shoe to drop.
"Well that was subtle." Alexis finally muttered, as she nodded a greeting to the Governor and his wife, fake smile lighting up her face. "You might as well have slapped Dex around the face with your gloves and demanded he release your woman or face the consequences."
"You started it." Blake hissed with surprising venom.
"Me?" Alexis demanded in surprise. "You stormed off like a child when Fallon dropped us 'Both' right in it. I told you once already, and this will be the last time I even justify that unfair accusation Blake, I had nothing to do with her little announcement."
"You have to admit with your track record…"
Ignoring that little barb Alexis resisted the urge to deliberately step on his toes, it wouldn't be worth the dent to her reputation even if it was momentarily satisfying.
"My track record notwithstanding, it was our daughter's doing, bawl her out when we get home if you feel you have to but honestly Blake we were hardly keeping it a secret, people were bound to find out."
"I would have preferred a little more notice." Blake muttered. "But you may have a point."
Pleased that she was ahead on points Alexis decided to address the last matter that was niggling at her.
"Then when I magnanimously decide to ignore your temper tantrum you send me away like an annoying younger sibling chasing after you and your buddy."
"So to punish me you just had to run off to your ex-husband. Trying to make me jealous Alexis?"
Alexis waited until the Governor was safely out of earshot before retorting, "The caveman act doesn't suit you Blake."
"What would you prefer that I turn a blind eye to your little flirtations?" Blake growled. "I did that once before and look how well that ended up!"
"You..." Alexis began hotly before stopping herself as they were interrupted by a beaming Minister Lin.
"Congratulations...You are a dark horse Carrington, now things make much more sense."
"Thank you Minister." Blake answered for them both. "If you'll excuse we really should circulate." He added surprisingly Alexis as he discreetly took her arm and edged them off the dance floor and towards the door.
"Are we leaving?"
"We are getting some fresh air." Blake countered and they walked out to the terrace, murmuring greetings to acquaintances as they passed. "Am I mistaken, or is Dexter still carrying a rather large torch for you?"
"I'm not sure, perhaps." Alexis replied vaguely.
Blake exhaled loudly, his annoyance with her obvious.
"Maybe he thought I was fair game since you were busy sulking with your new Texan friend." She looked up at him. "Planning something Darling…A Texan takeover?"
"Alexis, that is not--"
"Any of my business?" She finished for him. "Fine but you didn't need to send me off like a mere intern, it's a party Blake, if you want a private business discussion hold it in your office!"
As they walked through the garden, he put his hand on her back, rubbing gently. "You were annoyed; I could feel your eyes boring into me like a laser. Alexis I know you are vexed but…"
"Yes that is a good word for it." Alexis retorted sharply before looked up at him. "And stop rubbing my back. I can't stay mad at you when you do that."
"Perhaps I know that?"
She tried not to laugh and failed. "Who is he? This Grunnings?"
"He is just a man with whom I have many interests in common. A man of like mind. Our opportunities to talk are few, we don't exactly travel in the same circles and he just happened to be in town. Surely you won't begrudge me?"
"I hate it when you're all sweet and mysterious."
"Perhaps I knew that, too?" He drew her into the shadows of the nearby arbour, grabbed her as they vanished from view and pushed her against the wall. "Do you find him attractive?"
"Grunnings?" She batted her eyelashes innocently not at all perturbed by her suddenly vulnerable position.
He gave her a stern look. "Dex?"
"I did marry him Blake; I would hardly do that if I couldn't stand the man!"
"That was not what I meant and you know it!" Blake muttered leaning in close cupping her chin he forced her to meet his eyes. "Do you still have feelings for him Alexis?"
"Not the kind you are implying." Alexis countered. "Of course I still care about him, but I love you Blake. It's always been you, you know that."
"That is a relief. He is an excellent contractor and much easier to deal with than Sam these days. It would be a shame to have to find a new company to work with at this stage of construction." Blake replied lightly but Alexis could hear the relief in his voice.
Rolling her eyes at his priorities Alexis chided him, "I do hate to correct you Blake but that was the point where you say how much you love me as well, not express relief at not having to find a new contractor."
Smiling at her tone Blake adopted a suitably apologetic expression. "I do love you Alexis and if I sometimes come across like a...a..."
Sliding her arms up around his neck Alexis smiled at him. "You were jealous."
"Oh yes." Blake admitted ruefully, his voice pitched low and gravelly. "I was."
"Good." Alexis answered a naughty twinkle in her eye as she ran her foot teasingly up his calf, her previous annoyance evaporating in the warmth of his smile. "Care to show me just how much?"
Answering her inviting smile with a devilish grin of his own Blake leant down, his mouth hovering mere millimetres from her own, "Oh I would love to Mrs Colby."
---
It was late when the family returned home a sheepish Fallon bid her parents goodnight and dragged a silent Jeff upstairs with her. Adam and Dana had vanished earlier in the evening and Alexis could only assume they had gone somewhere to make up after their little tiff.
Greeting Gerard with a tired smile Alexis made her way up the staircase but Blake was surprised when the butler hovered nervously.
"I am sorry Mr Carrington but there was an urgent phone call whilst you were out…I didn't want to disturb you at the party so I wrote the name and number down on a pad in the library."
"That's alright Gerard I will phone them in the morning…I doubt anyone will be awake if I try now." Blake answered with a tired smile surprised when his butler stepped across to stop him.
"I really think you should return the call now sir…It was from Europe with the time difference it should be morning there and…" Gerard paused glancing up the staircase to make sure Alexis had truly left. "It was from Switzerland."
Paling as every terrible scenario ran through his mind Blake nodded running his fingers through his hair, unable to speak he nodded at a sombre Gerard and walked towards the library. His dread growing with every step.
This call could only mean one thing, a possibility he had been dreading since Krystle had first slipped into a coma, that they had finally lost her.
Picking up the phone he dialled the number Gerard had written on the pad, cursing when it seemed to take forever for someone to answer and yet hoping no one ever did. At length the phone was answered and Blake stated his name and the name of the Doctor he wished to speak to.
"Connecting you now sir." The reception stated in her clipped accented English.
"Doctor Hans Muir speaking."
"Dr Muir, Blake Carrington you left a message for me to call you…" Blake managed to gasp unable to bring himself to ask.
"Ah Mr Carrington excellent." The doctor's upbeat tone caused Blake to frown in confusion. "I am ringing to give you an update on your wife's condition."
"Krystle's alive?" Blake gasped, tears springing to his eyes, his relief palpable. Just the thought of breaking the news of her mother's death to Krystina had brought him out in Goosebumps.
"She is indeed Mr Carrington, but I think perhaps you should get on the next plane out here."
Frowning in confusion Blake could barely think straight, he had swung from despair to elation and now hovered somewhere close to numbness. "I don't understand Doctor, if Krystle is alive why are you calling."
"I'm calling Mr Carrington because your wife has woken up."
---